The highest-paid NFL players are often ranked by their average annual value, with stars like Trevor Lawrence and Joe Burrow leading the pack. However, not all teams create equal contracts. This article highlights the 10 Most Overpaid NFL Players by examining how their paychecks compare to their on-field performance.
Daniel Jones (Giants)
The New York Giants made a risky bet on Daniel Jones by signing him to a four-year, $160 million contract after a single promising season. However, his shaky performances and a recent ACL tea left the Giant fans wondering if they’ll ever get their money’s worth from this hefty contract.
Deshaun Watson (Browns)
This quarterback had a five-year, $230 million contract even with his ongoing NFL punishment. Deshaun Watson has had a tough time proving he’s worth that big price tag. Over the last three seasons, Watson has missed 39 games due to suspensions and injuries. He still has $92 million left on his “fully guaranteed” contract.
Von Miller (Bills)
A 33-year-old Von Miller was signed to a six-year, $120 million deal by the Buffalo Bills before the 2022 season with an $18 million signing bonus. His average salary alone comes out to $20 million per year. In two seasons with the Bills, Miller has missed 11 games due to injury and missed the playoffs in 2022 but has over $51 million guaranteed in his contract.
Alvin Kamara (Saints)
Making waves in the NFL, one player stands out as a top contender for being overpaid: Alvin Kamara. Kamara has a lot of value as a running back. The two-time NFL All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler was signed to a five-year, $75 million contract extension with the New Orleans Saints in September 2020.
Trevon Diggs (Cowboys)
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs made waves in the NFL in 2021, tying a franchise record with 11 interceptions, including two touchdowns. Despite being a standout player, Diggs faced criticism for his production relative to his salary, which is $97 million over 5 years.
D.J. Moore (Bears)
With an incredible four-year, $110 million extension, D.J. Moore has made headlines as one of the NFL’s most overpaid players. Despite an impressive 2023 season, racking up 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns, his hefty contract raises eyebrows. Can he deliver and prove he’s worth every penny?
Deebo Samuel (49ers)
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel is one of the NFL’s most overpaid players, with a $23.85 million average salary and a nearly 10% cap allocation. Despite his inconsistent performance and injury history, the team prepares for potential roster changes in 2025.
Daron Payne (Commanders)
Wow! This defensive tackle just signed a whopping four-year, $90 million deal, making him one of the NFL’s highest-paid players. But last season, his performance was a bit of a letdown—only four sacks. He has a massive $21.61 million cap hit in 2024, the Commanders better hope he steps it up, or that contract’s going to look like a big waste of money.
Orlando Brown (Bengals)
Imagine shelling out a staggering $64 million for an offensive tackle, only to find yourself questioning if the investment was worth it. This is the reality for the Bengals as they bank on their four-time Pro Bowler, Orlando Brown, to protect Joe Burrow’s blindside while fans hold their breath.
Kyle Pitts (Falcons)
This tight end, drafted fifth overall in 2021, was expected to revolutionize the position, but the stats haven’t lived up to the hype. With a four-year, $32.9 million contract, his single Pro Bowl season feels like a distant memory. As production dwindles, fans question if the Falcons made a costly mistake.
Top 10 NFL Players Whose Paychecks Outweigh Their Performance